Suffolk County, NY – Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced today that a 36-year-old Bay Shore man has been sentenced to a 23-year prison term for sexually abusing his young niece over a three-year period starting when she was just four years old.
The District Attorney praised the victim for her courage in coming forward, highlighting the egregious betrayal of family trust by the defendant, who exploited his niece in a deeply reprehensible manner. The office vows to relentlessly pursue justice for children subjected to such vile acts.
Trial evidence revealed the abuse commenced in 2017 in the family’s shared residence, where the defendant began his predatory actions under the guise of playing video games. Threatening harm to her sister if she disclosed the abuse, he maintained this horrific conduct until the family relocated in November 2020.
The victim’s disclosure to a relative in 2022 prompted an investigation by the Suffolk County Police Department, culminating in the defendant’s arrest in October 2022. On December 19, 2023, following a jury trial presided over by County Court Judge Karen M. Wilutis, he was convicted of first-degree Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child and endangering the welfare of a child.
On February 6, 2024, the man received his sentencing, facing 23 years behind bars followed by 20 years of post-release supervision, ensuring a lengthy period of accountability for his actions. James O’Rourke, Esq., represented the defendant, whose identity remains undisclosed to protect the victim’s privacy.